Determining The Towing Capacity Of A 2003 Chevy Suburban

Published 05/27/2022

Question:

I need some expert advise on towing - I have a 2003 Suburban 1500 4 wheel drive and want to tow a toy hauler that weights 6100 lbs along with two Harleys that weigh about 1400 lbs together. Is my Suburban going to be able to tow this? Since you are the experts I thought I would ask and would really appreciate a honest answer. Thanks.

asked by: Sue H

Expert Reply:

To know the exact amount your 2003 Chevy Suburban can safely tow you'll need to check the owner's manual or look at the tag in your driver's side door jamb to find your GVWR and GCWR.

Your GCWR is the maximum fully loaded weight of your vehicle and trailer combined. This includes passengers, cargo, fuel, etc. If it's rolling down the road on, in, or with your vehicle or trailer, it counts toward the GCWR. This is typically found in the manual or can be looked up online with your VIN.

Your GVWR is the fully loaded weight of the vehicle without the trailer. You can subtract your GVWR from your GCWR to find out just how much trailer you can tow. I've attached an article link below that rolls through all if this with pictures that is super helpful.

Once you determine if you can tow the trailer and Harley's the next step would be determining if you need a weight distribution hitch or other suspension enhancement to help offset any sag your Suburban has when towing the trailer.

Since you're looking at roughly 750lbs of tongue weight I recommend replacing your Suburban's factory bump stocks with the SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs # SSR-204-40. These are a super easy installation and will help provide a much smoother ride and better handling.

expert reply by: Kevin C